Price that Vehicle

[qatarexpat]

"What is a fair price for your car?" This is a question that always goes through our minds when buying. In the countries we often come from the car markets are larger, more established, and without the fluctuations in prices we see in Qatar from month to month. Car prices are determined by demand, so since demand fluctuates here you can also expect car prices to fluctuate.

The changing prices can make it difficult to make sense of what's fair, but it can also enable any of us to find exceptional deals. It may be good advice to first look at values in the USA before deciding the value here. Doing this can give us an idea of the world market value, but we have to be aware of several other factors for the car market in Qatar. For a list of current values, go to http://www.qatardealers.com/car-values/

Let's take a Honda as an example. Let's say we have a base (without options) used 2007 Honda CRV 4WD here in excellent condition that is worth 70,000 QR in the US. First we have to consider that high gas prices have hit most every SUV's market value over there this year, although they have recently come lower again. Here in Qatar we don't have that problem, as fuel cost is still a fraction of what it is elsewhere. How much is this CRV worth here? I know of one that recently sold for 73,000 QR. This price makes sense looking at all the factors.

Let's look at the opposing forces on the price for this used Honda CRV. Different factors can reduce the price, but the most important one is the time of year. When are people buying cars and when are they selling them? Generally speaking, buyers during the summer months dwindle. Expats trying to sell their vehicles during the spring and summer sometimes are forced to take a sizable loss. Buyers during these periods can often end up with a nice deal. Sometimes a very nice deal.

However, let's not simplify this too much. Prices can actually vary from week to week throughout the year. The model also makes a difference, as you can never predict exactly what preferences buyers have at a given time. If one is selling a Honda CRV one week and during that time every buyer is looking for something bigger, the price of it must fall to be sold.

Make sure to consider all factors that can influence the fair value of a car in Doha. This includes consideration of the condition of the car (fair, good, excellent), mileage, extra or missing options, and the general demand for the vehicle here in Qatar. The mileage of a car can significantly affect the value of a car (and should). Mileage can be a good indication of the life remaining for major and minor components of a vehicle. Always check to see that maintenance is up to date. The price of alternatives (other models and new cars of the same model) can also affect the demand and therefore the value.

Keep in mind that different brands and models retain value better than others. Japanese vehicles, especially Toyota and Honda, retain value here well as they do in the US and elsewhere. And some off-road SUVs have solid reputations for desert driving, which people tend to value here!

Does anyone have any additional insight into market values in Doha? We would love to hear about experiences you've had.